GLENN Howes admits he wants Poole Town’s season to be remembered for all the right reasons.

Howes, who was last week forced to quit due to a serious knee injury, endured play-off heartbreak with the Dolphins last season.

His former club Gosport Borough pipped Poole for promotion following a dramatic Division One South & West final at Tatnam.

Howes had played his part in helping Poole take a 1-0 lead through Marvin Brooks and the Dolphins looked destined to triumph as the clock reached 90 minutes.

However, veteran striker Steve Claridge netted deep into injury-time before Borough went on to register a 3-1 victory after extra-time.

“It was hard to take,” said Howes, who was close to rejoining Gosport in the summer.

“One of the reasons I re-signed for Poole was because I felt we had unfinished business. I wanted to go one better this season and I am sure they will.”

Howes had again featured prominently this season before his career was brought to a premature end after he had been the victim of late tackle during Poole’s 2-2 draw at Merthyr last month.

Poole, currently a point clear of second-placed Hungerford Town, could take a giant step towards achieving their goal tonight when they host fellow title hopefuls Swindon Supermarine.

With Poole having four games in hand on Hungerford, Marine – 10 points back in third place – are arguably the Dolphins’ biggest rivals for the one automatic promotion spot (7.45pm kick-off).

Boss Tom Killick is still searching for defensive cover, while midfielder Brooks is unavailable as he serves a suspension.

Dolphins: (from) Hutchings, Dibba, Walker, Spetch, Clarke, Preston, Cane, Devlin, Brooks, Kelly, Richardson, Burbidge, Byerley, Charles, Cann.

  • Wessex Premier Christchurch will be looking to claim a memorable scalp when they face Southern Premier high-fliers Gosport Borough in the semi-final of the Russell-Cotes Cup at Boro’s Privett Park tonight (7.45pm).
  • New signings Josh McCarthy, Elliott Tindall and Nick White look set to be added to the Ringwood Town squad for their Wessex One clash with Team Solent at Long Lane tonight (7.45pm). McCarthy has returned after making one appearance for the club last season, while Tindall and White have also signed.